The Princess's Silent Vow

The Kingdom of Aethelgard was in a festive mood, but Princess Elara felt only pressure. It was Valentine’s Day, a day that felt much more serious in her kingdom than in the neighboring lands. Today, she had to choose a husband. The crowd cheered as she arrived, but her heart was wavering. She had two suitors, and neither was a good catch.

First was Duke Marcus. He was a responsible man who promised to protect the borders with his whole heart. He spoke deeply about his loyalty to the crown. However, his flaw was his temper. He often crosses the line when he is angry, shouting at servants for the smallest mistakes. To Elara, a man who couldn't control his rage had a fatal weakness.

Then there was Count Julian. He was handsome and charming, but he had a tendency to say something stupid whenever the conversation turned to politics. During a royal dinner, he had a massive brain fart and forgot the name of the King's father. While some laughed it off, Elara saw it as a fatal sign of his lack of intelligence.

"Princess," the King whispered, "you must choose. You cannot settle for a life of loneliness. Either Marcus or Julian will make a fine King."

Elara looked at her options. She didn't want to settle for someone who was either a bully or a fool. She knew that if she chose either, her relationship would be in trouble before it even started. She needed a second to think. She weighed the charms and flaws of the men. Marcus was strong but cruel; Julian was sweet but dim-witted.

Suddenly, Elara stepped forward. "I have made my choice," she announced. The suitors leaned in, hopeful. "I'd rather live alone than marry a man I do not respect. I will not settle. Instead, I choose to rule this kingdom as its first solo Queen."

The crowd gasped. It was a bold move that no one expected. She turned to the suitors and smiled. "I wish you both a Happy Valentine’s Day, but I am my own good catch."